Saturday, October 18, 2008

All of My Eggs in One Basket

Lately it's been really slow on Etsy, and I've even done some tests with my listings to see if it would make a difference. Nada! So it's really got me thinking about having all of my eggs in one basket. I've started to list more on ShopHandmade (the picture above is a pair that I just listed their last night). I've had views there, but no sales yet. I figure I'll probably be listing about 2 items a day or every other day there to fill up my store. They're still in their Beta testing period, so I know that it will probably be awhile before things start taking off there, but it's exciting to think that my shop is part of an innovative online venue.

I often wonder how some of the older (sellers who've been there for years) artisan jewelers are doing? Are they selling as often as they used to? If not, do they think it's because the jewelry side of it is so flooded? Or, do they think it's because of the economy? I personally feel that people are afraid to part with their money right now...and believe me I completely understand! I no longer purchase items that aren't necessary....or aren't needed. I'm fortunate though because "jewelry" is my second job, I can hold out until the economy improves, but I really feel for those that depend on this for a source of income.

I'm not giving up on Etsy, I love that site, it's been very good to me, but right now I just want to test the waters with other venues. Really you have nothing to lose listing on Shophandmade because it's completely free.

3 comments:

Hi Shi,I haven't been on Etsy long enough to know if things are any different but I suspect it has a lot to do with the economy. Even the B&M stores are very quiet right now and reports indicate sales are very slow everywhere. I agree it doesn't hurt to try other venues. Good luck wherever you decide to sell, your jewelry is beautiful regardless!

I wonder how it is for people who are actually making their living off their art too. I think of my shop as a way to excuse my compulsion. With the crummy economy we're not buying as much and there is definitely a rule in place to either buy local or buy independent over the net.

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About Me

I'm a tree hugging, Goddess loving, hippy at heart. I'm also a mother of twin boys about to venture off to college. I believe that magick surrounds us, the Fae are real, and wishes do come true if you just believe.
My creative outlet is making jewelry. The best part is making pieces for specific reasons, finding out the meaning and healing properties of the stones and creating a piece just for that individual.